U.S. News & World Report has ranked El Paso as the No. 2 best large city to live in the United States for 2025-2026, a distinction announced this week. The annual list evaluates metropolitan areas with populations exceeding 500,000, placing El Paso near the top based on a comprehensive analysis of its community attributes.

This high ranking provides national recognition for the city, potentially influencing economic development, tourism, and residential growth. The placement reflects strong performance across several key metrics, including affordability, quality of life, and the local job market. For residents, the ranking affirms many of the qualities they value, while for outsiders, it positions El Paso as an increasingly attractive destination for relocation and investment.

What We Know So Far

  • El Paso earned the No. 2 spot on the U.S. News & World Report list of Best Large Cities to Live for 2025-2026, according to multiple reports.
  • The ranking specifically evaluated U.S. cities with populations greater than 500,000, as confirmed by KFOX-TV and other outlets.
  • The methodology considered several core indexes: quality of life, value, desirability, job market strength, and net migration, according to the City of El Paso.
  • The city’s combination of value and livability, particularly its relatively affordable housing and lower median rent, was cited as a key strength in the analysis.
  • City officials, including Mayor Renard U. Johnson and City Manager Dionne Mack, publicly acknowledged the ranking as a reflection of the city's positive trajectory.
  • According to a report from KVIA.com, the factors highlighted in the national report align with priorities identified by residents in the city’s most recent community survey.

Why El Paso Ranks as a Top Large City

El Paso's prominent position in the U.S. News & World Report ranking stems from a balanced performance across several critical categories. The publication’s analysis is designed to measure a city’s overall livability, weighing factors that matter most to people searching for a new place to call home. These include the practicalities of everyday life, financial health, and general well-being.